The History of Bicycle Roofs and Canopies
Since the steerable, two-wheeled bicycle was invented in the 1800s, inventors of all ages have devised equipment to protect cyclists from rain, some of which were a bit crazy and others very ingenious. While they won’t all make it to the Cycling Hall of Fame, each of them has contributed in their own way to making cycling easier regardless of the weather.
In the second part of the 19th century, weather protection systems (such as umbrella attachments to the bicycle frame) were developed for these mobile machines, also called velocipede. The video below shows a passionate inventor in the 1930s who introduces his bicycle umbrella.
In the 1940s, a patent was filed for an articulated bicycle canopy. The inventor detailed in his patent that his creation is intended to “make life easier for those who are forced to travel great distances every day to get to their jobs, regardless of the weather.” In addition, this equipment was also envisioned to replace or complement rain jackets.
In the 1960s, more impressive structures were created with improved ability to protect riders against bad weather. While aerodynamics and wind resistance were probably not a top priority for the inventors, their rain guards were genuine and have paved the way for the modern rain shields we use today.
Many fascinating innovations are found in the archives of the many patents filed on the subject over the decades. For example, the diagram below looks like a modern solar panel as a roof, supplying the bicycle’s energy. However, it is actually a bike roof that can be rolled out above the cyclist when it rains.
There were more practical designs by the end of the 20th century, such as the rain gear produced for Tour de France riders.
The latest rain shields are far more effective at keeping cyclists dry and more convenient, and simpler to use. These include the portable Softtop and the integrated roof from the AllWeatherBike.
Softtop Rain Shield
The Softtop, developed by German manufacturer RainRider, is made of coated polyester fabric and transparent UV-resistant polyurethane. It is attached to the user’s bicycle via a quick-release mount on the handlebars and a pair of hooks on either leg of the fork. Similar to a tent, a set of flexible aluminum and carbon fiber rods hold its tensioned bowed shape. In addition, mesh vents in front keep it from fogging up.
While the cyclist is riding, the Softtop shields them from cold airstreams and rain from overhead, in front, and somewhat from the sides. If the rider makes a quick stop into a shop, the top half of the device can be folded down and behind, hooking into place at the bike’s rear rack. This helps keep the parked bike dry. However, should the cyclist make a more extended stop or they’re back home, the entire contraption can be removed, folded up, and then stuffed into an included yoga-mat-style bag.
The Softtop weighs only 3.3 lb (1.5 kg) and is 84.6 in tall by 15.7 in wide (215 cm by 40 cm). It is currently available for around US$153 (€129.95) via the company website. Watch the Softtop in use and see how quickly it folds up in the video below.
Integrated Rain Shield Roof
Unlike other devices added to bikes to keep the rider dry in the rain, the new e-bike dubbed the AllWeatherBike doesn’t need any add-ons – its integrated roof can be pulled up in just three seconds.
The AllWeatherBike, designed by German cyclist/entrepreneur Tom Eisner, comprises an aluminum frame that incorporates two curved beams that arch up over the rider on both sides, leaving them open to fresh air when the weather is pleasant. However, if it starts to rain, the cyclist can pull a sheet of transparent plastic film up out of an enclosed roll found in front of the handlebars.
The edges of that sheet slide within slots that run the length of each beam, guiding the sheet and holding it stretched in place. Once it’s pulled all the way up over the rider’s head, it latches onto a rear crossbar located between the two beams. In addition, the cyclist’s legs are somewhat protected by a solid guard sheet attached to the bike’s down tube. Once the rain ends, the film is unlatched and retracted back onto its roll in the front.
Eisner claims that the plastic is durable and stands up well to strong winds. The fully-functional prototype sports a Bosch bottom bracket motor and can hold two 750-Wh Bosch frame-integrated lithium batteries – with a claimed motor-assisted range of over 62 miles (100 km).
Other features include:
- Disc brakes
- A belt drive drivetrain
- Front and rear cargo racks
- Fenders
- A kickstand
- An adjustable-height saddle
The Eurobike trade show is currently showcasing the AllWeatherBike, where Eisner hopes to find a company interested in manufacturing it.
Cyclists who want to ride more safely should look into innovative smart bike gear, such as LED helmets, airbag backpacks, and ‘smart’ LED bike pedals.
